It does amaze how some dealers, bikes as well as cages, do business, and are not closed down by now.
I feel sorry for people that actually bought anything from them. They have to the dumbest or the most easily lead people...

 

300 non refundable to run a credit app to buy a bike from them? F*ck them. I'm amazed that people actually go along with that sort of BS. Good for you for walking out.

 

Just out of interest - how far does "deal first" go?

I mean, I'm happy to discuss a price and add-on options... but not signing anything at all without a test drive.
Once you sign the paperwork you have a legal binding contract - NOT happening without a test drive.

But if they just want to talk a deal - what does it matter? Come back and say "nah, mate, changed me mind". Just don't sign anything.

 

Indianapolis Harley Davidson had a superior blue Superlow for the price of a black one. I ran up after work and she wanted me to ride it (escorted) that afternoon, said no, I was just looking. I went home and filled out the credit app with HDF online and was approved, enough to buy several bikes...

Within an hour or so the dealer called because HDF had notified them I had been approved so they knew I was serious. The next day I took the bike out for a test ride, escorted of course. I can understand that since they didn't know me. No way I would buy a bike without test riding it first, not some demo but the actual bike.

I can understand why some dealers might be leery of letting people they don't know test ride though. The Honda dealer I bought several bikes from lost two CB750's. Ended up they were taking bikes out to test ride them and had a van a few miles down the road. They were loading them up and driving off.

 

Agree - I have no issues with an escort... they don't know you from a wombat if you're new to them. But no ride = no buy.

 

Dealers around my area of Ohio have no problem with unescorted demo rides anytime. Go in..pick your bike..show your license and go. Usualy on Saturdays during the season they'll feed you to boot.

 

My local does unescorted, but after a change in management another dealer near by would only do short escorted rides due to 'insurance reasons." After a test ride on a bike I was interested in, I came back and talked to the manager that a literal trip around the block was insufficient to get a feel for highway usage. He acted like I was twisting his arm and let me take it on the highway he was right next to, only to the next on/off ramp, escorted of course. He was replaced shortly after due to low sales.

 

I took a Superglide Sport out at a local dealer from whom I have bought a bike, as well as parts and clothing. The actually escorted me. Wasn't the end of the world but it made me wonder what gives.

 

My dealer has offered on several occasions to wheel out whatever bike I wanted to test. Recently, I did purchase from them.

 

What seat is that on the bike in your sig? Are you happy with it?